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2016 Homogenizers Survey Results

Find out our readers' most common homogenizer applications, and more, in the results of our 2016 survey

by
Erica Tennenhouse, PhD

Erica Tennenhouse, PhD, is the managing editor of Clinical Lab Manager.

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Turning a sample into a suspension—the essence of homogenizing—occurs in a wide range of
laboratory applications. In life science and clinical research, scientists often homogenize tissue
samples for various analytical studies.

Top 5 Questions You Should Ask When Buying a Homogenizer

  1. How does this homogenizer differ from the competition? What makes it superior in quality and cost effective for the scientist?
  2. What accessories are necessary to run the unit? Are there pre-assembled bead kits to use that will simplify the homogenization process?
  3. Does the company offer demo units for the scientist to test out?
  4. Does the company offer application and technical phone support before/after the product purchase?
  5. Ask about replacements in case the product parts break down with use.

Homogenizer types used by survey respondents:

Rotor-stator54%
Ultrasonic50%
Bead mill36%
Fluidized bed4%
Other14%

Homogenizer applications as reported by survey respondents:

Homogenization80%
Cell disruption54%
Extraction36%
Mixing23%
Dissolving20%
Emulsification19%
Shredding10%
Wetting4%
Process reactions1%
Precipitation1%
Gassing1%
Other1%

Nearly 39% of respondents are engaged in purchasing a homogenizer. The reasons for these purchases are as follows:

Replacement of an aging instrument
44%
Addition to existing systems, increase capacity
28%
First time purchase
11%
Setting up a new lab
6%
Other
9%

Top 10 features/factors respondents look for when purchasing a homogenizer:

Durability of product82%
Low maintenance—easy to use and clean78%
Value for price paid76%
Results with minimum deviation73%
Variable speed controls69%
Safety features63%
Service and support62%
Warranty57%
Reliability of vendor57%
Reputation of vendor47%

For more information on homogenizers, visit www.labmanager.com/homogenizers

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